ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS:  A passport is required to be valid for three months beyond a visitor's intended stay. Visas are not required for U.S. citizens for tourist, short study or business visits of up to 90 days within any six-month period. That period begins when you enter any of the Schengen countries: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. Visas are required for U.S. citizens for longer stays and in order to work in the Czech Republic. In such cases, it is recommended that travelers obtain a visa in advance of entering the Czech Republic.

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:  The Czech Republic is located in the heart of Europe. Tourist facilities in Prague are at the level of those found in most European capitals, while travelers outside of Prague can expect lower standards. Travelers are encouraged to be vigilant as pick-pocketing and petty theft occurs often in crowded tourist areas, restaurants and on public transportation.

Note:  The Czech Republic became a part of the Schengen area in January 2008. Although European Union regulations require that non-EU visitors obtain a stamp in their passports upon initial entry to a Schengen country, many borders are not staffed with officers carrying out this function. If an American citizen wishes to ensure that his or her entry is properly documented, it may be necessary to request a stamp at an official point of entry. Under local law, travelers without a stamp in their passports may be questioned and asked to document the length of their stay in Schengen countries at the time of departure or at any other point during their visit, and could face possible fines or other repercussions if unable to do so.  

REGISTRATION/EMBASSY AND CONSULATE LOCATIONS:  Americans living in the Czech Republic are encouraged to register with the Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website, so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within the Czech Republic.  Americans without Internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.  The U.S. Embassy in Prague is located at: Trziste 15, 118 01 Prague, Czech Republic; telephone: (420)257 022 000; Consular Section fax: (420)257 022 809; webpage: http://prague.usembassy.gov